What’s ‘U3′ technology?

Annie R. From Toronto asks: "Marc, I see some USB memory sticks include something called ‘U3.’ What is it and why is it important?"

Hey Annie, thanks for the email.

U3 technology will soon evolve into something else, but let me first answer your question.

Developed by U3 LLC, a joint venture between SanDisk (the makers of the popular Cruzer line of USB thumb-drives and Sansa MP3 players) and m-systems, "U3" smart software first became available in 2005 on select USB drives. SanDisk then acquired m-systems nearly two years ago.

U3 is Windows-based software that resides on SanDisk’s USB thumb-drives that lets users carry applications and preferences that offer a secure and consistent experience among multiple PCs. This may include personalized email programs and settings info, web browsers and website profiles, productivity tools, communication software (such as VoIP programs like Skype or Vonage), multimedia applications and so on.

Typically when you plug a U3-based Flash drive into a PC you’ll see two windows pop up: one lets you access files on the stick or copy more data to it (e.g. drive F:) and the second is to open the U3 files (on, say, drive G:) which might include the SignupShield password manager, Avast antivirus protection and an encryption tool to protect your files in case you lose this tiny USB drive.

OK, while details are vague, Microsoft and SanDisk recently announced they were joining forces to expand on and replace U3 technology with more robust tools for Windows PCs, including the addition of TrustedFlash security technology.

SanDisk says it will incorporate a new software suite on its removable flash memory cards and Cruzer USB flash drives during the second half of 2008. Stay tuned to Sync for all the details.